Two separate attacks on New Year's Day 2025, one in Las Vegas and the other in New Orleans, have brought the security of peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms into sharp focus. Both incidents involved vehicles rented through Turo, raising concerns about the platform's vetting procedures and the potential for misuse.

Image from Turo website (Turo)

Las Vegas Cybertruck Explosion

A Tesla Cybertruck detonated near the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, resulting in the driver's death and injuries to seven bystanders. The vehicle was reportedly filled with fireworks and fuel canisters. While the FBI is investigating a possible terrorism link, Tesla CEO Elon Musk attributed the blast to explosives in the truck bed, unrelated to the vehicle's functionality.

New Orleans Bourbon Street Attack

A rented Ford F-150 driven by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran, plowed through barricades on Bourbon Street, killing 15 and injuring many more. Jabbar fired on the crowd and was later killed in a police shootout. An ISIS flag and IEDs were found in the truck, leading the FBI to investigate the incident as terrorism.

Turo's Role and Security Measures

The common link between the incidents – Turo – has placed the company's security practices under scrutiny. Turo, a platform similar to Airbnb but for cars, connects car owners with renters. The company verifies user identities and conducts background checks, although the specifics of these checks are unclear.

Image from Turo website (Turo)

How Turo Works

Car owners list their vehicles on Turo, providing details like make, model, and availability. Renters browse and book through the platform. Both parties verify their identities, and Turo facilitates the pick-up, return, payment, and insurance aspects of the rental.

Image from Turo website (Turo)

Turo maintains that neither renter had a criminal history that would have raised red flags and that there is no current evidence linking the two events. The company is cooperating with law enforcement.

Turo app ad (Turo)

Regulations and Future Implications

Peer-to-peer car sharing is subject to evolving regulations, with some states having specific laws in place. Turo has supported increased regulation. These incidents are likely to trigger further scrutiny of the industry and potentially lead to stricter security measures and screening processes for both renters and vehicles.